Georgian PM warns against “opposition-led unrest” ahead of elections

Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, who also chairs the ruling Georgian Dream party election staff, on Wednesday warned against any attempts to incite unrest before or after the October 26 parliamentary elections.

Speaking at a briefing, Kobakhidze emphasized the state had sufficient resources to prevent any disorder and that any provocation would be met with “severe punishment”.

Kobakhidze highlighted concerns that the “radical” opposition, “aware of the ruling party’s strong polling position”, was expected to attempt to disrupt the election process. He referenced past incidents, such as the crime on Khorava Street, suggesting that “similar staged events” could be used to destabilize the situation.

“We have information that the radical opposition is discussing scenarios that could lead to public unrest. Any such attempt to bring chaos to Georgia will be severely punished,” Kobakhidze said.

He also noted that special security measures were in place to protect Bidzina Ivanishvili, the party’s honorary chairman, amid rising tensions. Kobakhidze concluded by reaffirming that the state was “fully prepared” to maintain order and ensure a peaceful election process.